Many ideas for dog related jobs bounced around my head over the years, but it came down to a choice few. In the beginning, running a boarding kennel was actually my top pick. However, my tastes have since changed, and that 24/7 responsibility no longer appeals to me. Training was another dream in which my interest has fluctuated, though I still haven't set it completely aside. I will be pursuing some obedience and other sports with my own dogs, but whether that leads to teaching others will be left to fate. Now, pet styling actually started out as only a moderate interest, perhaps as a side business. The idea was recommended to me (insisted, really) by a teacher who suggested I call her groomer about apprenticing. I looked into it, and figured it would be a way into the pet care field, so I went for it. Shortly after high school graduation I entered a professional grooming course under Jan Waldo. It was an intense summer of learning the trade. By the next spring, I had opened a small grooming studio of my own, which my ever supportive parents allowed me to set up in their home.
While pet styling grew increasingly addictive, it wasn't until a few years into it that I became truly committed to the profession. I discovered continuing education opportunities as well as the existence of grooming competitions. This knowledge was refreshing, and I found that when one never stops learning, there is always something to look forward to. I have since attended many seminars, joined a couple professional organizations, and began competitive grooming. At my first contest, I knew I was hooked; it just felt like I belonged there. Not to say it wasn't nerve wracking - it freaked me out - but I still loved it! To add to the excitement, I was awarded first place in my group at that initial competition, and went on to place second in class at the next event.
Looking to the future, I plan to continue competing and advancing my career. My hopes are to relocate locally to a larger space as soon as possible, which will be more comfortable and useful. (Unfortunately, I don't see that feasible for several years.) I am also pursuing voluntary certification; so far I've completed Non-Sporting phase with NDGAA, as well as several ISCC DermaTech exams. And after years of waiting & searching, I finally aquired a Standard Poodle in the summer of '09. With my special interest being in creative grooming, I will certainly have fun with all that hair! We'll also be active in various sports - watch my other pages for updates. :-)
When my mind isn't clogged with fur, there are a number of other activities I enjoy. Books have always been a passion, and my eclectic collection includes short stories, classic novels, mythology, plays, poetry, holistic health, and architecture & decorating, along with my multitude of canine references. Movies and music are a necessity, and board games are always fun. I've done some writing (even been published!), and various forms of art. Pottery classes were wonderful! And woodburning is my newest craft. Plus digital creations for my CafePress stores. I also enjoy line dancing, as well as skiing and swimming. Next on my list of things to try is fencing, a sport I've always wanted to take a stab at. ;-)
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"Groomer Grins & Groans"
An eclectic blend of business announcements, personal updates, favorite resources, several surveys and a bit of babbling.